Looking for something?

The Archive

Manage

When the bad surrounds you, focus on the good in your life

I had a strange moment a couple days ago in which I experienced what people have deemed a “triggering event.” I am not sure what caused it but I did have to take a few moments to recover from it. I recalled a memory from MANY years ago, and it was actually something I had forgotten over time. I remember the hurt I felt, the embarrassment, the betrayal, the shock that this even happened to me. And worse yet, the people in my life at the time did nothing to help me. In fact, they didn’t want anything bad to happen to the other person, so I was asked to keep quiet. The incident attacked not only me as a woman, but me as an Asian American. I was written off. So I thought about that event from years ago, processing my feelings, analyzing each moment. And yes, I felt bad, but fast forward so many years later, I can now say that I can quickly recover from that memory. I’m happier, I’m stronger, and I am more in control of my life and my feelings.

Something, what helps me during these moments is to focus on all the good things about my life. There is a long list, and sometimes I forget about it. But I made this video to serve as a reminder that these good things do exist and they will continue to exist even when I am caught in a moment of weakness. Life will always be full of moments that are both wonderful and miserable, so it is up to you on how you react to them. Your perspective will best tested on occasion, and don’t worry if you feel overwhelmed! It’s okay. Just remember to step back, breathe and remember that you made it. You made it today.

I also made this video because I know I am not alone in feeling this way. So I say to you, the fact that you are here, watching this video, reading this journal, it proves that you are a survivor and that you conquered whatever it was that hurt you in the past. And whatever comes your way in the present, you will handle it with such grace and experience.

This is "And Now Just Listen" featuring Avery, Nick, Justin and Lewes. We talk about games, tech, movies, and get sidetracked a lot. Interested in contributing? Email inquiries to andnowjustlisten@gmail.com.